Costly Christianity: Were Jesus’ Followers Homeless and Estranged?

Context determines the meaning is one of the important principles of biblical interpretation that is to be put into practice. Without proper consideration of the context, we might read Luke 9:57-62 and suppose Jesus followers were homeless and estranged. But context unveils the wrongheadedness of such an interpretation. Luke tells us that Jesus experienced rejection … Continue reading Costly Christianity: Were Jesus’ Followers Homeless and Estranged?

What is the Significance of Jesus’ Transfiguration?

Peter, James, and John were with Jesus on a mountain praying when something extraordinarily took place. The three disciples noticed Jesus praying when “the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white” (Lk. 9:29). [1] Mark and Matthew describe the appearance of the Lord as being “transfigured” (Mk. 9:3; Matt. 17.2).[2] … Continue reading What is the Significance of Jesus’ Transfiguration?

Is God a Man?

The Lord’s prayer beings, “Father, hallowed be your name” (Luke 11:2; cf. Matt. 6:9).[1] Elsewhere, Jesus addressed the Father as “Abba” (Mk. 14:36; cf. Rm. 8:15; Gal. 4:6), which is “the Aramaic word for ‘Papa,’ a term of great intimacy and affectionate respect.”[2] We can address God as “Father” or even “Papa.” But can we … Continue reading Is God a Man?

Suffering, Vindication, and Resurrection from the Book of Job

I am listening to a reading of the Book of Job. Job was a man from Uz who suffered greatly. Bandits robbed him of his property. A storm felled the house that crushed his sons and daughters to death during supper. His body became riddled with loathsome, unpleasant, and painful sores. His three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, … Continue reading Suffering, Vindication, and Resurrection from the Book of Job